A blended family presents a unique set of estate planning challenges not commonly encountered in traditional nuclear families. It’s always complicated to think about how your assets will be distributed after your death, but the intricacies multiply when stepchildren,...
Providing Peace Of Mind
For You And Your Family
Month: October 2023
Estate planning considerations for single parents
With the entire burden of caring for your family resting on your shoulders as a single parent, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive estate plan to ensure that your children will be looked after. Your estate plan will likely be more than just a basic document....
How can planned gifting impact someone’s estate?
Giving gifts to loved ones can be a major source of joy. Many people actually enjoy giving gifts more than they enjoy receiving them. For this and a host of other reasons, many older adults who have accumulated substantial personal resources intentionally arrange to...
How do I make certain my will is valid?
In Virginia, people are often advised as to the value of estate planning. This is true regardless of their income, family situation and age. Everyone can benefit by being fully prepared for the future with an estate plan of some kind. Taking this step is important,...
What assets are at risk during Medicaid estate recovery efforts?
When someone dies in Virginia, the property that they own becomes their estate. Their financial obligations and debts become the responsibility of their estate. The personal representative that they name in their testamentary documents or the individual appointed to...
An estate planning checklist for the surviving spouse
If your spouse has recently passed away, you are likely feeling overwhelmed by your emotional loss. Finding the strength to handle practical matters can seem distressing. However, there are some things you should probably address as soon as you can. 1. Locate...
Should I discuss my estate plan with my family?
Movies and television would have us think that no one can know the contents of someone’s will until they’re deceased. Everyone gathers around for the big reveal that’s full of surprises. Dramatic will readings belong in Hollywood. When it comes to real life, there are...
3 factors that should influence one’s choice of trustee
Creating a trust is a process that requires extensive planning. First, someone has to set their goals and choose the right type of trust based on their needs. The person creating the trust will need to transfer assets to fund the trust and provide detailed...
Can I update my will or make a new one?
Virginians are independent folk, and we grow with time. This is why, even if you have a will, you may want to update your will or even make an entirely new one. And, the answer is that you definitely can. Why update it? So, why update your will? Life changes, and your...
Can financial accounts bypass the Virginia probate courts?
The Virginia courts oversee estate administration. The assets of those most people who die without an estate plan in place have their assets pass through probate court. Additionally, anyone who owns real property or significant assets solely in their own name that are...